The LAX Theme Building, an iconic structure in the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), has undergone a remarkable transformation from a symbol of retro futurism to a cultural icon, eventually gaining the status of a Historic-Cultural Monument. With its distinctive spaceship-like appearance, the Theme Building has been an integral part of LAX since its construction in 1961. The building’s unique design was the brainchild of some of the most brilliant architects of that time, including William Pereira and Charles Luckman, who envisaged an airport of the future.
The LAX Theme Building is a prime example of the Googie architecture style that was popular during the mid-20th century. This architectural style was influenced by car culture, jets, the Space Age, and the Atomic Age. It was characterized by bold angles, colorful signs, starbursts, and boomerang shapes. The Theme Building epitomizes this style with its parabolic arches, which give it a flying saucer-like appearance. This design reflected the optimistic outlook towards technology and the future that was prevalent during this period, marking it as a symbol of retro futurism.
However, the significance of the LAX Theme Building extends beyond its architectural style. On this day December 18, 1993, over three decades after its original construction, the city of Los Angeles declared it a Historic-Cultural Monument. This title is reserved for those structures that hold a special place in the city’s history or have an exceptional architectural merit. By receiving this designation, the Theme Building joined the ranks of other important structures in Los Angeles, such as the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Bowl.
Today, the LAX Theme Building stands as a cultural icon that represents not just a distinctive architectural era but also encapsulates a distinct period in Los Angeles’ history. Its enduring presence continues to fascinate visitors and locals alike, serving as a reminder of a time when the future was envisioned with great optimism and bold imagination. From retro futurism to becoming a Historic-Cultural Monument, the story of the LAX Theme Building is indeed a captivating journey through time.
